Let the envelope opening commence!

Do you hear that sound? Somewhere, someone is opening an envelope. Scanning the committee list for friends and neighbors. Checking the start time. And, sometimes more importantly, the end time. Is it a cocktail party or an after-work event? Is the attire business casual or black-tie formal? Do the hated words “creative attire” menace from the invitation?

Flipping through the date book starts the mind churning. When was the last time you wore the tried-and-true Little Black Dress? Perhaps all it needs is a new pashmina to freshen the look.

Call the sitter.

Call the sitter.

Call the sitter.

Quick! The good one. The one everyone calls weeks in advance and whom you’re determined to book this time.

Better be safe and book a blow-out. And a visit to the make-up counter. Then again, the last time around you ended up looking more RuPaul than Raquel.

The attendance of guests at charity events is more than just showing up. It isn’t easy keeping audiences consistently engaged throughout the parade of benefit luncheons, dinners and galas, art shows, and store openings.

Another tableful of silent auction items, each exquisite, many unique. This is a charitable endeavor, not the time to go bargain hunting. But it doesn’t hurt to bid and then bid again.

Not another buzz-killing speech. Keep it short. Keep it sweet. Thank your sponsors, but don’t list them. Sponsors are already named in the designed program that the committee has spent sleepless nights poring over.

The presentation of the meal should not outshine its ingredients. Prime rib will always impress more than a fanciful French concoction. In any case, guests came to support the charity, not for a culinary thrill. They most want to enjoy the company of fellow guests, acknowledge the good work done on behalf of those in need, and get home at a reasonable hour.